Purpose of LRIT

Long Range Identification and Tracking or LRIT enables a Contracting Government to obtain ship identity and location information insufficient time to evaluate the security risk posed by a ship off its coast and to respond, if necessary, to reduce any risks.

Long-range identification and tracking is also not a GMDSS communications system but it may use GMDSS equipment, particularly Inmarsat C terminals.

LRIT is the subject of a new regulation included in chapter V of SOLAS which applies to ships constructed after 31 December 2008 with a phased-in implementation schedule for existing ships.

The new regulation does not apply to ships that operate exclusively within sea area A1 and are fitted with AIS.